Chef Works, leading supplier of culinary uniforms in the UK, has announced a trio of senior appointments as part of a new phase of growth in Europe and the Middle East (EME).
Tim Lee has joined as Commercial Director, while James Green has been appointed to a Sales Director role, taking over from Sam O’Kane who has been promoted to Key Accounts Director EME. It takes the total head count of the business, headquartered in Leeds, to 21.
The appointments come off the back of a year of significant growth, which saw the company’s $5m+ turnover increase through new hotel and leisure client wins, as well as progress in the private education and assisted living sectors.
Managing Director, Paul Gross, explains: “We’re delighted to have landed some major new customers this year which has allowed us to forge ahead with a sizeable growth chapter for Chef Works, focusing on EME. Our new hires will be instrumental in helping us to grow further across different sectors and serve our increasingly cross-European customer base. We’re thrilled to have them on board.”
Tim was previously Managing Director at Elite Fine Foods in Sussex, James joins from a business development role at Aqua Libra, while Sam hits his second promotion within the Chef Works family in the past three years. Each will focus on developing Chef Works’ programme management services to companies wishing to consolidate their supplier base.
Tim Lee says of his new role: “Joining Chef Works Europe as Commercial Director is an exciting opportunity at a pivotal moment for the business. With our brand legacy of excellence and a rapidly evolving market, we are positioned to redefine industry standards.”
James Green adds: “Chef Works and Bragard uniforms are universally loved by independent cafes up to huge global hotel chains. From the front of house to the back, they’ve set the bar for style, service and sustainability over the years, and I’m proud to be representing the company as it moves into a more ambitious period of growth.”
Sam O’Kane concludes: "I’ve seen Chef Works go from strength-to-strength, despite tough market conditions in hospitality. It’s testament to our outstanding commitment to customer service and constant product innovation. Stepping into this new role fills me with excitement as I focus on expanding our cross-European accounts, contributing to the brand's incredible future and shaping what’s next for Chef Works.”
Chef Works’ focus on sustainability has become a key selling point in recent years, with an eco-friendly collection of sustainable products now its fastest-growing line of culinary uniforms. The best-selling range of aprons, chef jackets and trousers, some of which are made from discarded plastic bottles, have met consumer demand for ethical clothing with a reduced environmental impact.
For more information, visit www.chefworks.co.uk.
